The 2026 World Cup, set to take place across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, is poised to make history not only with its expanded number of participating teams but also with a groundbreaking addition to the tournament’s format. For the first time in nearly a century of World Cup history, the final match will feature a halftime show, a tradition often seen in major American sporting events like the Super Bowl. The final, scheduled for July 19, 2026, will be held at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, near New York City, and will showcase performances by globally renowned artists curated with input from members of the band Coldplay.
Gianni Infantino, president of Fifa, revealed the plans during a convention with the organization’s commercial and media partners in Dallas, United States. He emphasized that the event would mark a pivotal moment for the tournament, elevating the competition—already regarded as the world’s greatest sporting spectacle—to new heights. The initiative aims to captivate an even broader audience by blending sport and entertainment on an unprecedented global scale for soccer.
Beyond the halftime show at the final, Fifa has planned a series of events to celebrate the tournament’s conclusion, including a cultural takeover of New York’s iconic Times Square during the final weekend of the competition. The famed avenue will host performances tied to both the third-place playoff and the final, promising a vibrant celebration for fans in the area, whether they attend the matches or not.
A milestone for global soccer
Introducing a halftime show at the World Cup final is seen as Fifa’s attempt to modernize the tournament and appeal to new audiences, particularly in the North American market, where soccer still competes with more established sports like American football and basketball. In the Super Bowl, the halftime performance is often the most anticipated segment, featuring global stars such as Beyoncé, Rihanna, and, more recently, Kendrick Lamar and SZA in the 2023 edition. Fifa aims to replicate this cultural impact, tailoring it to the unique context of soccer.
MetLife Stadium, the chosen venue for the final, is one of the largest and most advanced stadiums in the United States, with a capacity of over 82,000 spectators. Located in East Rutherford, New Jersey, it serves as the home field for the NFL’s New York Giants and New York Jets and has previously hosted major events, including international concerts and significant matches like those in the 2016 Copa América. Selecting this stadium underscores Fifa’s intent to create an unforgettable experience both on and off the pitch.
To organize the spectacle, Fifa will collaborate with Chris Martin, the lead singer of Coldplay, and Phil Harvey, the band’s manager. They will assist in selecting the artists who will perform during the halftime show, ensuring the event matches the grandeur of the occasion. Fifa also highlighted its partnership with Global Citizen, suggesting the performance may carry a social message aligned with the organization’s global advocacy efforts.
What to expect from the halftime show
While specifics regarding the duration and format of the halftime show remain undisclosed, some logistical questions have already surfaced. Traditionally, the halftime break in soccer matches lasts 15 minutes, which could pose challenges for setting up and dismantling a stage for a large-scale performance. In contrast, the Super Bowl extends its halftime to around 30 minutes to accommodate elaborate productions. It remains unclear whether Fifa will adjust the break time for the 2026 final or opt for a more streamlined presentation.
The benefits of a halftime show are manifold, from boosting television viewership to creating a cultural moment that transcends the sport itself. Fifa anticipates that the performance will not only entertain fans in the stadium and at home but also drive significant economic and tourism gains for the New York and New Jersey region. With the involvement of Coldplay’s Chris Martin and Phil Harvey, the lineup is expected to feature internationally acclaimed artists, potentially drawing in viewers who might not typically tune into soccer.
Coldplay’s influence in shaping the event adds an extra layer of anticipation. Known for their visually stunning live performances and positive messaging, the band’s involvement could lead to a diverse selection of artists spanning various musical genres, reflecting the cultural diversity that the World Cup embodies.
Times Square as a complementary stage
In addition to the halftime show at MetLife Stadium, Fifa announced an ambitious plan to transform Times Square into a central hub of celebration during the tournament’s final weekend. The area, famous for its massive LED billboards and bustling atmosphere, will host events tied to the third-place playoff and the final. This initiative aims to provide an immersive experience for fans in New York, even those without tickets to the matches.
The choice of Times Square is strategic. As one of the world’s most visited destinations, attracting over 50 million tourists annually, the location is perfect for high-visibility events. During the final weekend of the World Cup, the area is expected to become a gathering point for fans worldwide, featuring live match broadcasts, performances, and cultural activities. The event is also likely to boost local businesses, benefiting bars, restaurants, and shops in the vicinity.
Incorporating New York into Fifa’s 2026 plans highlights the organization’s commitment to making the tournament a celebration that extends beyond soccer. The city, already a global cultural and tourism hub, will have an opportunity to shine even brighter, drawing international attention and reinforcing its status as a leading metropolis.
Schedule and preparations for the 2026 World Cup
The 2026 World Cup will be the largest in history, featuring 48 teams—an increase from the 32 teams of previous editions. The tournament is set to kick off on June 11 and conclude with the final on July 19. A total of 104 matches will be played across 16 host cities in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, with notable locations including Los Angeles, Miami, and Toronto, alongside New Jersey.
Here are some key details about the event’s timeline and organization:
- Tournament start: June 11, 2026, with opening matches in multiple host cities.
- Total matches: 104, covering the group stage, round of 16, quarterfinals, semifinals, third-place playoff, and final.
- Final match: July 19, 2026, at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
- Host cities: 16 in total, with 11 in the United States, 3 in Mexico, and 2 in Canada.
- Side events: In addition to matches, fan fests and cultural activities, such as those planned for Times Square, will take place.
Preparations for the tournament are in full swing, with host cities focusing on infrastructure improvements to accommodate millions of visitors. Fifa is also investing in security, transportation, and hospitality to ensure a seamless experience for attendees. The involvement of organizations like Global Citizen suggests an emphasis on sustainability and social impact throughout the event.
Expected economic and cultural impact
Hosting the 2026 World Cup in North America is projected to generate a multi-billion-dollar economic impact, particularly for the New York and New Jersey region. Estimates suggest that the tournament could draw over 1 million visitors to the New York metropolitan area alone, injecting billions into the local economy. Hotels, restaurants, and tourism-related businesses are already gearing up for a significant surge in demand during the event.
Culturally, the tournament has the potential to further solidify soccer as a mainstream sport in the United States, where its popularity has been steadily rising over the past few decades. Incorporating a halftime show and events in Times Square could attract new audiences, particularly younger fans who engage with entertainment alongside sports. This hybrid approach may set a new standard for future tournaments.
The collaboration with figures like Chris Martin and Phil Harvey also indicates Fifa’s aim to balance tradition with innovation. By integrating elements of global entertainment into the heart of soccer, the organization hopes to create moments that resonate with fans for generations, much like the iconic goals and matches that define the World Cup’s history.
